Word of the Day: Folly
folly
fol-ly / fŏl-ē
noun (plural follies)
1. lack of good sense, thought or understanding; foolishness
Nobody so wise but has a little folly to spare.
German Proverb
2. an instance of foolishness
There is no folly equal to that of throwing away friendship in a world where friendship is so rare.
Edward Bulwer-Lytton, 1803 – 1873
3. a costly or foolish venture
It is best to learn wisdom from the follies of others.
Latin Proverb
4. a fanciful structure built for decorative purpose only, serving no practical purpose
Follys were very popular in the 18th century and were usually ornamental buildings with no practical purpose – often towers or mock-Gothic ruins built in large gardens or parks.
Keiligh Baker, “Englishman’s home really is his castle!”, ‘DailyMail.com, www.dailymail.co.uk/news/
5. follies (both singular and plural) an elaborate musical show with songs, dancing, and skits and elaborate costumes
Joining Miss Bayes in the Follies of 1908, which opened at the Jardin de Paris on June 15, was Mlle. Dazie who performed her Jiu Jitsu Waltz, as well as her Swingstreet/Streetswing ballet.
Carla Cushman, “Stage Whispers”, carlacushman.
